COURSE OVERVIEW:

Welcome to the Assisting NDIS Participants with Accommodation & Tenancy Supports course. This program has been developed to equip you with the knowledge, responsibilities, and applied strategies required to provide high-quality, person-centred assistance in navigating housing systems. Grounded in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) framework, the course focuses on building housing-related capacity, promoting independence, and ensuring sustainable tenancy outcomes for people with disability.

Accommodation and tenancy supports under the NDIS are designed to help participants overcome barriers in securing and maintaining safe, suitable housing. This course begins by introducing the scope and purpose of these supports, explaining how they align with broader goals of community participation and choice. It outlines the proactive role that service providers play in supporting participants’ independence and autonomy through assistance with housing tasks. The section also provides a clear overview of participant rights and responsibilities within tenancy contexts, reinforcing the importance of informed decision-making, mutual respect, and adherence to tenancy agreements.

NDIS funding for accommodation and tenancy support is based on specific eligibility criteria and functional need. This section examines the key requirements that determine a participant’s access to funded housing-related supports, including the role of functional assessments and goals within individual NDIS plans. It explains how providers must align their assistance with the NDIS Reasonable and Necessary criteria, and how to distinguish between supports funded by the NDIS versus those delivered by housing providers, real estate services, or other mainstream agencies.

Building capacity for housing independence is a fundamental outcome of accommodation and tenancy supports. This section explores evidence-based strategies that support participants in developing the daily skills required to live more independently. It includes techniques for assisting with routines, household responsibilities, communication, and housing-related problem-solving. The section also promotes the importance of encouraging participants to advocate for their own needs and take greater ownership of their housing journeys.

Navigating the rental application process can present significant challenges for many participants. This section provides step-by-step guidance on assisting participants in researching available properties, preparing and submitting rental applications, and presenting themselves effectively during interviews and property inspections. Emphasis is placed on understanding local rental market dynamics and addressing discrimination that may arise during the application process.

Sustaining a successful tenancy involves a clear understanding of rights and obligations. This section focuses on how to educate and support participants in meeting tenancy responsibilities such as paying rent, maintaining the premises, and communicating with landlords or housing managers. It includes guidance on budgeting for housing-related costs, handling tenancy issues, and promoting respectful communication to support stable living arrangements.

Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA) is a time-limited support available through the NDIS to assist participants who are awaiting permanent housing solutions. This section explains when MTA is appropriate, the criteria for access, and the process for requesting this support. It also provides guidance on ensuring continuity of care during the MTA period, including how to maintain routines, provide ongoing support, and prepare for transition into long-term housing.

The Australian housing system can be complex to navigate, especially for people with disability. This section outlines the key types of housing services available—including public housing, community housing, and crisis accommodation—and the role that each plays in supporting NDIS participants. It also explains how support workers can build relationships with housing providers and participate in collaborative planning to meet participants’ individual housing needs.

In times of urgent need, participants may require crisis accommodation or emergency housing assistance. This section details how to recognise when a housing crisis is occurring, how to initiate emergency housing referrals, and how to coordinate essential supports during these critical periods. It also emphasises the importance of proactive contingency planning to reduce disruption and promote safety and wellbeing in housing emergencies.

Barriers to housing stability—such as past evictions, financial stress, discrimination, or behavioural challenges—can place participants at risk of homelessness. This section explores how to identify and respond to these barriers using tailored strategies and coordinated services. It also addresses advocacy approaches to protect participants’ housing rights and support fair access to secure and inclusive living arrangements.

Effective collaboration with support coordinators, allied health professionals, and housing specialists is key to achieving long-term housing outcomes. This section describes how to work within multidisciplinary teams to share insights, implement shared strategies, and monitor participant progress. It reinforces the role of the support worker in coordinating services and contributing meaningfully to the participant’s broader housing and life goals.

Cultural safety is essential when providing accommodation supports to participants from diverse backgrounds. This section discusses how to recognise and respect cultural values, preferences, and sensitivities that influence housing decisions. It outlines methods for delivering culturally responsive services, engaging with community leaders, and accessing culturally appropriate housing supports to ensure dignity and inclusion.

Housing assistance must always be delivered within a legal and ethical framework. This section explains the legal responsibilities of providers and support workers in tenancy contexts, including compliance with tenancy laws, privacy requirements, and reporting obligations. It also addresses common ethical dilemmas and provides strategies for upholding participants’ rights, autonomy, and best interests in complex housing situations.

Monitoring and reviewing housing goals allows participants and providers to track progress and make adjustments as needed. This section outlines how to establish meaningful housing goals within the NDIS planning framework, regularly review support strategies, and document outcomes. It also addresses the importance of reflective practice and continuous improvement in delivering sustainable housing outcomes.

Transitioning to long-term accommodation is a critical step in achieving housing security. This section provides guidance on preparing participants for permanent housing, ensuring that all required supports, assistive technologies, and environmental modifications are in place. It also discusses how to assist participants in establishing routines, building community connections, and maintaining stability during and after the transition.

Shared living arrangements, such as supported independent living or informal co-tenancies, require careful planning and coordination. This section explores how to support participants in choosing compatible housemates, establishing house rules, and resolving interpersonal issues constructively. It also includes strategies for promoting safety, cooperation, and wellbeing within shared homes.

Assistive technologies can play a vital role in enabling housing independence. This section introduces a range of technologies—such as smart home systems, communication aids, and environmental controls—that can assist with daily living. It covers how to arrange functional assessments, seek NDIS funding for devices, and train participants in using their assistive technologies effectively in a home environment.

By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the practical skills, ethical principles, and collaborative knowledge required to provide high-quality accommodation and tenancy supports under the NDIS. Your role in supporting housing stability, choice, and independence is essential to helping participants live safely and meaningfully within their chosen homes and communities.

Each section is complemented with examples to illustrate the concepts and techniques discussed.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:

1. Introduction to NDIS Accommodation & Tenancy Supports

• Understanding the scope and purpose of accommodation and tenancy supports under the NDIS.
• The role of service providers in facilitating housing stability and independence.
• Overview of participant rights and responsibilities in housing contexts.

2. NDIS Funding Criteria for Accommodation & Tenancy Supports

• Eligibility requirements for participants to receive accommodation and tenancy supports.
• Understanding the NDIS funding criteria and how supports must relate to disability needs.
• Distinguishing between NDIS-funded supports and those provided by other services.

3. Building Capacity for Housing Independence

• Strategies to enhance participants' skills in managing housing-related tasks.
• Developing routines and systems to support independent living.
• Encouraging self-advocacy in housing matters.

4. Assisting with Rental Tenancy Applications

• Guiding participants through the process of searching for rental properties.
• Supporting the completion and submission of rental applications.
• Preparing participants for rental interviews and inspections.

5. Supporting Tenancy Obligations and Responsibilities

• Educating participants on the terms and conditions of tenancy agreements.
• Assisting with rent payments and budgeting for housing costs.
• Facilitating communication with landlords and property managers.

6. Medium-Term Accommodation (MTA) Supports

• Understanding the purpose and eligibility criteria for MTA.
• Assisting participants in applying for MTA when transitioning to long-term housing.
• Coordinating supports during the MTA period to ensure continuity of care.

7. Navigating Housing Systems and Services

• Identifying and connecting with public and community housing providers.
• Understanding the roles of various housing support services.
• Collaborating with housing services to secure appropriate accommodation.

8. Crisis Accommodation and Emergency Housing Supports

• Recognising situations that may require emergency housing interventions.
• Accessing crisis accommodation services and supports.
• Developing contingency plans for housing emergencies.

9. Addressing Barriers to Housing Stability

• Identifying common challenges faced by participants in maintaining housing.
• Implementing strategies to overcome barriers such as discrimination or financial hardship.
• Advocating for participants' housing rights and needs.

10. Collaborating with Support Coordinators and Allied Health Professionals

• Working as part of a multidisciplinary team to support housing goals.
• Sharing information and strategies to enhance participant outcomes.
• Coordinating services to provide holistic support.

11. Cultural Competency in Housing Supports

• Understanding the cultural considerations in housing preferences and needs.
• Providing culturally sensitive support to diverse participant populations.
• Engaging with community leaders and cultural support services.

12. Legal and Ethical Considerations in Housing Support

• Maintaining confidentiality and respecting participants' privacy.
• Understanding legal obligations related to tenancy and support provision.
• Navigating ethical dilemmas in housing support scenarios.

13. Monitoring and Reviewing Housing Goals

• Setting measurable and achievable housing-related goals with participants.
• Regularly reviewing progress and adjusting support strategies as needed.
• Documenting outcomes and lessons learned for continuous improvement.

14. Transitioning to Long-Term Accommodation

• Preparing participants for the move to permanent housing.
• Ensuring necessary supports and modifications are in place.
• Facilitating the establishment of routines and community connections.

15. Supporting Participants in Shared Living Arrangements

• Assisting with the selection of compatible housemates.
• Establishing agreements and boundaries within shared accommodations.
• Mediating conflicts and promoting harmonious living environments.

16. Utilising Assistive Technology in Housing

• Identifying assistive technologies that support independent living.
• Coordinating assessments and funding for necessary equipment.
• Training participants in the use of assistive technologies.

COURSE DURATION:

The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.

COURSE DELIVERY:

Purchase and download course content.

ASSESSMENT:

A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.

CERTIFICATION:

Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.